Ingredients with Measurements:
- 1 sheet of puff pastry, thawed
- 1 bunch of asparagus, trimmed
- 4-6 slices of prosciutto
- 1/2 cup of ricotta cheese
- 1/4 cup of grated Parmesan cheese
- 1 egg, beaten
- Salt and pepper to taste
Special equipment needed:
- Baking sheet
- Parchment paper
Step-by-step instructions:
1. Preheat the oven to 400°F (200°C).
2. Roll out the puff pastry on a lightly floured surface and transfer it to a baking sheet lined with parchment paper.
3. In a small bowl, mix together the ricotta cheese, Parmesan cheese, and beaten egg. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
4. Spread the ricotta mixture evenly over the puff pastry, leaving a 1-inch border around the edges.
5. Lay the prosciutto slices over the ricotta mixture.
6. Arrange the asparagus spears on top of the prosciutto, alternating the direction of the tips.
7. Brush the edges of the puff pastry with the remaining beaten egg.
8. Bake the tart for 20-25 minutes, or until the pastry is golden brown and the asparagus is tender.
9. Let the tart cool for a few minutes before slicing and serving.
Time:
Preparation time: 15 minutes
Cooking time: 20-25 minutes
Total time: 35-40 minutes
Temperature:
400°F (200°C)
Serving size:
4-6 servings
Nutritional information:
Calories per serving: 280
Total fat: 19g
Saturated fat: 8g
Cholesterol: 80mg
Sodium: 450mg
Total carbohydrates: 17g
Dietary fiber: 1g
Sugars: 1g
Protein: 10g
Substitutions for ingredients:
- Puff pastry can be substituted with pie crust or phyllo dough.
- Ricotta cheese can be substituted with goat cheese or cream cheese.
- Parmesan cheese can be substituted with Pecorino Romano or Asiago cheese.
- Prosciutto can be substituted with cooked bacon or ham.
- Asparagus can be substituted with green beans or zucchini.
Variations:
- Add sliced cherry tomatoes or roasted red peppers for extra flavor and color.
- Top the tart with a sprinkle of chopped fresh herbs, such as basil or parsley.
- Use different types of cheese, such as feta or blue cheese, for a different flavor profile.
Tips and tricks:
- Be sure to trim the tough ends of the asparagus before using.
- If the puff pastry becomes too soft to work with, place it in the refrigerator for a few minutes to firm up.
- For a crispier crust, prick the bottom of the puff pastry with a fork before adding the toppings.
Storage instructions:
- Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
Reheating instructions:
- To reheat, place the tart in a preheated 350°F (180°C) oven for 10-15 minutes, or until heated through.
Presentation ideas:
- Serve the tart on a platter or cutting board, garnished with fresh herbs or sliced cherry tomatoes.
Garnishes:
- Fresh herbs, such as basil or parsley
- Sliced cherry tomatoes or roasted red peppers
Pairings:
- A crisp white wine, such as Sauvignon Blanc or Pinot Grigio, pairs well with this tart.
Suggested side dishes:
- A simple green salad with a vinaigrette dressing
- Roasted potatoes or sweet potatoes
- Grilled or roasted vegetables, such as zucchini or bell peppers
Troubleshooting advice:
- If the puff pastry becomes too soft to work with, place it in the refrigerator for a few minutes to firm up.
- If the tart becomes too brown on top before the asparagus is cooked through, cover it with foil and continue baking until the asparagus is tender.
Food safety advice:
- Be sure to cook the tart to an internal temperature of 165°F (74°C) to ensure it is safe to eat.
Food history:
- Tarts have been a popular dish in European cuisine for centuries, with variations ranging from sweet to savory.
Flavor profiles:
- The tart combines the salty and savory flavors of prosciutto and Parmesan cheese with the fresh and slightly bitter taste of asparagus.
Serving suggestions:
- Serve the tart as a main dish for lunch or dinner, or as an appetizer for a party or gathering.
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